Miss Universe Australia Qld finalist - Holly James

Well, it’s that time of year when the search to find Miss Universe Australia is well underway with state finals kicking off across the country.
Starting off our home state interviews is Holly James one of the contestants who will be competing for a place in the national final held later this year in Melbourne at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, Wednesday, August 31st, 2016 where the nations finalists will be competing for the title of Miss Universe Australia 2016.

Congratulations on making it so far in the coveted Miss Universe Australia competition tell us a little about yourself..?
Thankyou so much, I’m super excited to be involved in the 2016 Miss Universe program! I grew up on the beautiful Gold Coast, and have developed a very happy and healthy lifestyle. Some of my favourite things are travelling to new places, exploring the outdoors, and nutella flavoured anything! I work in finance, but also spend my time modelling and coaching track and field. Encouraging women to be active and have fun is a big passion of mine, and I’m proud to be the first female ambassador for Evolve Skateboards.

Who or what inspired you to get involved in the Miss Universe Australia pageant? A few years ago I watched Jesinta Campbell take out the title, and I knew then that it was something I just had to get involved in. I love the idea of combining beauty and intelligence with the opportunity to make a difference in the world. Society always needs strong, positive role models, and the Miss Universe Pageant is an amazing international platform for this

Speaking of inspiration what inspires you most?
Seeing young women take on the world and winning. With social media these days it is so easy to feel connected to others all over the globe. I love reading about women achieving goals in business, sports and life in general. It always inspires me to work harder and constantly push the boundaries.

What is something that you hope to bring out of the Miss Universe Australia pageant? Increased knowledge and confidence, new friends, and an experience I’ll never forget.

Holly-James---Emma-Attard-Photography

The Miss Universe Pageant has a long history of associating with charity are there any social causes that are particularly close to your heart that you would like to use the platform of Miss Universe to advance? The official charity of Miss Universe Australia this year is Toybox International, who raise funds for sick and disadvantaged children. This is an amazing cause and something that I hope to continue working with beyond the competition. Another charity close to my heart is the Butterfly Foundation, who supports Australians suffering from eating disorders. Being so passionate about living a healthy lifestyle, it breaks my heart to hear of the potential funding cuts to this organisation. There are over 1 million people in Australia living with an eating disorder, and currently the Butterfly Foundation is the only support service for this illness. I would love to use the Miss Universe platform to raise awareness of this issue, so Australians can continue to benefit from this amazing charity.

The rivalry between states is sure to be heightened this year why do you think Queensland is the best state to take out Miss Universe Australia?
The Queensland girls are a really strong team this year! We have the amazing Think 24Hr Fitness sponsoring us, and at every training session I see the determination on the faces of all the girls. We also have Jesinta Campbell as our team captain, so Queensland will definitely be a force to be reckoned with!

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

What is something you find yourself always saying?
I’m hungry!

How would your closest friend describe you?
Fun, loving and a little bit crazy (the good kind!).

What are your top three values that you live by?
Be kind to everyone.
No pain no gain.
Take time to stop and smell the roses.

Something that makes you stand out from other contestants?
My bright personality and willingness to put 110% into everything I do.

What does your current fitness regime look like in the lead up to the state finals ..? I’m currently doing a mixture of strength, running, boxing and circuit training. Think 24Hr Fitness is the QLD gym sponsor, and I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the personal training and nutrition guidance that they are providing me with in the lead up to state finals

Name five things you can’t live without?
Sunshine
Coconut oil
My Evolve electric skateboard
Music
Exercise

What song would you say is your personal anthem or theme song and why?
Sunday Morning by Maroon 5. It always reminds me to slow down and enjoy the little things in
life.

Holly-James

Owen George

Owen George

Editor & Chief of Gold Coast Magazine is a lover of great coffee and sharing the stories of the people, places, and events that make the Gold Coast such a great city

In a surprising turn of events, Black Hops Brewery announced today via social media that the company would be entering voluntary administration

In a surprising turn of events, Black Hops Brewery announced today via social media that the company would be entering voluntary administration

Widespread media reports are announcing the cancellation of the 2024 Splendour in the Grass Event just two weeks after they announced this years lineup.

Widespread media reports are announcing the cancellation of the 2024 Splendour in the Grass Event just two weeks after they announced this years lineup.

Uncover the secret to an unforgettable Easter feast with Elk Espresso's tantalizing Bird's Nest Hotcakes - your taste buds won't want to miss this!

Uncover the secret to an unforgettable Easter feast with Elk Espresso’s tantalizing Bird’s Nest Hotcakes – your taste buds won’t want to miss this!

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Zanthii Communications' Director, Joanne Rahn, and her mother, Marilyn West, recently hosted their 18th consecutive Sovereign Islands &

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Zanthii Communications’ Director, Joanne Rahn, and her mother, Marilyn West, recently hosted their 18th consecutive Sovereign Islands & Surrounds Monthly Community Luncheon

With the Rip Curl Pro on the horizon, Bells Beach is set to become the ultimate battleground for surfing's finest, where adrenaline-pumping action and perfect

With the Rip Curl Pro on the horizon, Bells Beach is set to become the ultimate battleground for surfing’s finest, where adrenaline-pumping action and perfect waves collide across the easter break

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Boo Seeka as we explore the creative process behind his latest album 'Midnight Highlight' and gear up for

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Boo Seeka as we explore the creative process behind his latest album ‘Midnight Highlight’ and gear up for his nationwide tour

Discover Act of Treason: Australia's pioneering agave spirit reshaping the global landscape. Read more about its innovative journey in Queensland

Discover Act of Treason: Australia’s pioneering agave spirit reshaping the global landscape. Read more about its innovative journey in Queensland

Dine amidst nature at Farm & Co Restaurant in the Tweed Valley. Offering farm-fresh, organic eats on a 52-acre farm, it's a perfect mix of

Dine amidst nature at Farm & Co Restaurant in the Tweed Valley. Offering farm-fresh, organic eats on a 52-acre farm, it’s a perfect mix of rustic charm and gourmet flavours.